Eric Javier Salazar, born on May 27, 1982, in Brooklyn, New York, served his country with honor, pride, and unwavering dedication as an enlisted Military Police officer in the United States Army, assigned to the 744th Military Police Battalion.

The beloved son of Fernando Carlos Santiago Jr. and Melecia Salazar De Santiago, Eric was raised with strong values rooted in family, service, and respect for others. These values shaped the man he became and guided his decision to serve his country. After relocating to Pennsylvania, Eric graduated from Liberty High School and VoTech, where he developed the technical skills and strong work ethic that would carry him throughout his life.

Following high school, Eric worked in HVAC, taking pride in hands-on work and helping others through his skills. Driven by a deep sense of duty, he later enlisted in the United States Army, where he served as a Military Police officer with the 744th MP Battalion. In this role, Eric upheld the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and responsibility, always placing the safety and well-being of others first. He was proud of his service, proud of his unit, and proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with his fellow soldiers.

The brotherhood and strength Eric gained during his military service remained with him long after his time in uniform. He continued his commitment to service as a federal police officer with the VA in Philadelphia, dedicating himself to protecting veterans and those around him.

Eric's life was defined by service, loyalty, and love for his family. He wore many titles such as a devoted son, brother, father, grandfather, and uncle. He is survived by his beloved children, Genesys Salazar, Alexis Salazar, and Eddie Javier Salazar; his cherished grandchild, Adonis Aleczander Moss; his siblings, Jessica Valdez (Alex), Fernando Carlos Santiago III (Bridget), and Edwin Salazar (Kimberly); his loving parents, Fernando Carlos Santiago Jr. and Melecia Salazar De Santiago; and his nieces and nephews Jalexus, Nathan, Isabella, Edwin Jr, Elijah, Alexandria, Lily, and Freddy.

We honor Eric Javier Salazar for his faithful service to this nation, his strength of character, and the quiet courage with which he lived his life. His legacy as a soldier of the 744th Military Police Battalion, a protector, and a devoted family man will forever be remembered with gratitude and respect.

Services : A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church, 450 East Washington Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Visitation and calling hours will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the start of the Mass. Following the mass, interment will be held at Bethlehem Memorial Park Cemetery. Eric's arrangements have been entrusted to Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be made at cantelmifuneralhome.com

Contributions : In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Eric's name to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516